At the recent K-Speech Eloquence Competition held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, Alfiana Amrin Rosyadi, S.S., M.A., a lecturer in the Korean Language and Culture Study Program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), received a Dedication Award from Mr. Woo Young Taek, President of the K-Speech Eloquence Association Indonesia.

This award was presented in recognition of her consistent dedication over the past three years in mentoring UGM students for the competition in Jakarta, and even accompanying last year’s winner to the international contest in Vientiane, Laos.

The plaque also acknowledged Ms. Alfi’s initiative in transforming the final speaking exam into a K-Speech-style oratory performance, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of Korean language education. Additionally, she has facilitated opportunities for Mr. Woo Young Taek to visit UGM and deliver a special lecture on effective speech techniques.

Surprised and honored to receive the award, Ms. Alfi expressed her gratitude. She mentioned that the recognition serves as new motivation to further integrate Korean oratory training into practical speaking classes. Currently, beyond converting the final exam into oratory-style presentations, the Korean Language and Culture Study Program at UGM has also established a speaking club to prepare future competition participants. Over the past year, the club has been mentored by students, but moving forward, it will be supervised by faculty members to ensure UGM’s representatives are well-prepared both technically and mentally for the K-Speech stage.

Written by: Alfiana Amrin
Edited by: Sherina Azmi

Yogyakarta, 17/5/2025 – A proud achievement has once again been recorded by a student from Gadjah Mada University (UGM). Haris Arfakhsyadz Azka Maula, a student of the Arabic Literature Study Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, successfully secured 2nd place in the prestigious International Arabic Speech Competition (Khiṭābah ‘Arabiyyah) held as part of the GEKA 7 International event.

The competition took place from May 14 to 17, 2025, at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) and served as an international stage featuring 26 participants from various renowned institutions, both domestic and abroad. Countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Turkey sent their best delegates. Notable foreign universities participating included Universiti Malaya, USIM, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and Fatoni University from Thailand.

In a competitive atmosphere filled with enthusiasm, Haris stood out as the sole delegate from UGM’s Arabic Literature program, showcasing his proficiency in Arabic while delivering a speech in front of an international jury and audience. With sharp rhetorical skills, a strong command of the language, and high confidence, Haris managed to impress the judges and secured the second position, just one point behind the first-place winner from Darussalam Gontor University.

“I feel very grateful. All of this is thanks to the guidance of my lecturers, the support of my friends, and the prayers from my parents who have always accompanied my journey.” Haris expressed emotion after the announcement of the winners.

The International Arabic Speech Competition is a significant event that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting access to education and enhancing educational opportunities in developing countries. By participating in such international competitions, students like Haris not only gain valuable experience but also contribute to the global dialogue on education and cultural exchange.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of education in developing countries cannot be overstated. Events like the International Arabic Speech Competition provide a platform for students to showcase their talents and foster a sense of community among diverse cultures. Haris’s achievement is a testament to the potential that lies within students when given access to quality education and opportunities.

This achievement is tangible proof that Indonesian students, especially in the humanities field like Arabic Literature, can compete and excel on the international stage. Haris’s victory also reflects the quality of education and the collaborative spirit within the UGM academic environment, which continuously encourages its students to excel and contribute in global forums.

Haris Arfakhsyadz Azka Maula’s story is not just about competition; it embodies the spirit of learning, dedication, and the belief that language is a bridge to the world. This achievement serves as an inspiration for the younger generation to dare to dream and take steps further.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, July 7, 2025 — Ajengkanthi Prabaningjati, a 2022 student of the Japanese Language, Literature, and Culture Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), is currently participating in the Community Service-Learning and Empowerment Program (KKN-PPM) Period II of 2025 in Wardo Village, West Biak, Biak Numfor Regency, Papua Province.

Ajeng is part of a KKN team called Biak Elok, whose main program theme is “Optimizing Sustainable Marine Resources to Realize a Blue Economy.” The program focuses on empowering local communities through the sustainable utilization of marine wealth. “Most people in Wardo Village work as fishermen, with fish as the main commodity,” explained Ajeng.

Within the team, Ajeng serves as the Coordinator of the Education Division. Together with her team, she focuses on teaching activities, especially for elementary school children, with an emphasis on character education. “The education division and I focus on teaching the elementary school children in Wardo, but we also open community classes for anyone who wants to learn in the Church environment, and we also assist as mentors for Sunday school. I hope we can make a lasting impact on the children here,” she expressed.

During the KKN program, Ajeng and her fellow team members stayed at the GKI Betel Wardo Church. They were warmly welcomed and cared for by a couple they affectionately call Mama Regina and Papa Ben. “Mama and Papa have been a great help to us, especially in terms of food. Not only that, but the Church community has also been very friendly and welcoming. The children often play with us too. Honestly, I feel very grateful to be accepted here,” added Ajeng.

Despite the remote location, the Biak Elok team managed to gain attention on social media. Thanks to their media team’s creativity, various moments from their community service from the natural beauty of Wardo Village to heartwarming interactions with the children—were captured in videos uploaded to Instagram and TikTok. Some of the posts even went viral and received positive responses from netizens.

One of the most touching experiences for Ajeng during the KKN program was witnessing the enthusiasm for learning among the children in Wardo Village. “Their eagerness to learn and their deep curiosity I think that’s already a strong foundation for them to achieve their dreams,” she said.

At the end of the interview, Ajeng shared a message for fellow students, especially those from FIB who will undertake KKN. “In my opinion, KKN is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that not everyone gets to have. So when your time comes, try to enjoy every part of it. From the small things that may seem trivial to the big moments that will teach you a lot. I hope FIB friends can discover new, meaningful, and memorable stories through their journey.”

[Public Relation, FIB UGM, Alma Syahwalani]

Yogyakarta, 2/7/2025 – The 4th International Seminar on Malay-Javanese Studies (SEMEJA) was held at the University Club of Universitas Gadjah Mada, presenting an inspiring discourse on the power of women’s narratives in Javanese literature. Dra. Wiwien Widyawati Rahayu, M.A., together with two of her students, Yudha Adistira and Saktia Hidayah, presented a study entitled “Leadership of Female Characters in the Novel Kidung Trěsna Sang Pikatan: Rancière’s Democratic Perspective.”

In her presentation, the researcher highlighted how female characters in the novel by Alexandra Indriyanti Dewi serve as agents of social change. Utilizing the radical democracy theory of Jacques Rancière, they interpreted that leadership in the story does not stem from structural power but from political actions that challenge the established patriarchal symbolic order.

Wulan, Pramodawardhani, and Sri Kahulunan emerged as representations of female figures manifesting Rancière’s three main concepts: dissensus, egalitarianism, and the reversal of hierarchy. Wulan, depicted as tělik sandhi, experiences inner conflict and subtly challenges the system through apparent compliance, a form of dissensus that quietly disrupts the power structure. Meanwhile, Pramodawardhani reflects the spirit of egalitarianism through her sharp political strategies and involvement in the development of Borobudur Temple. On the other hand, Sri Kahulunan firmly opposes the claim that leadership must be male-dominated, showcasing women’s courage in repositioning power.

Interestingly, all three characters were also analyzed through the lens of Donna Haraway’s cyborg feminism, positioning them as hybrid subjects that reject old dichotomies such as male-female or public-private. With this approach, female figures emerge not merely as complements to historical narratives but as leaders who reshape the power map.

This presentation contributes significantly to the discourse on gender and politics within the realm of literature, affirming that Javanese literature can also serve as a democratic space that validates women’s voices as active subjects of social change. More than just a historical romance, Kidung Trěsna Sang Pikatan stands as a text of resistance against patriarchy and a symbol of Javanese women’s bravery in carving their nation’s history.

The seminar also emphasized the importance of cultural diversity in literature, showcasing how different narratives can coexist and enrich the understanding of gender roles. By empowering girls through education for sustainability, the event highlighted the need for equal opportunities in literary representation, ensuring that women’s stories are told and celebrated.

In conclusion, through the presentation session by Dra. Wiwien Widyawati Rahayu, M.A., SEMEJA IV not only celebrated the contributions of experts and academics in Malay-Javanese studies, but also reinforced the importance of education and cultural diversity in building a more inclusive and sustainable future. The narrative presented is a call to action for everyone to recognize and support the vital role of women in literature and society.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]

Yogyakarta, 1/7/2025 – The 4th International Seminar on Malay-Javanese Studies (SEMEJA 2025) was officially opened at the University Club of Gadjah Mada University (UGM) on July 1, 2025. The seminar brought together academics, researchers, and cultural observers from Indonesia and Malaysia. The opening ceremony commenced solemnly at 8:30 AM, starting with a prayer, followed by welcoming speeches from various dignitaries, including the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM and the Director of the Institute of Malay Civilization (ATMA) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).

In his welcoming address, Prof. Dr. Setiadi, S.Sos., M.Si., the Dean of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at UGM, expressed his appreciation for the presence of all participants and partners from UKM, particularly ATMA. He emphasized the importance of continuing scientific collaboration that had been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “This seminar serves as a strategic platform to delve into the historical, cultural, linguistic, and civilizational ties between the Malay and Javanese communities. UGM believes that Malay-Javanese studies provide significant benefits in strengthening international academic networks and preserving our shared cultural heritage,” said Prof. Setiadi.

He also highlighted that this seminar is not only relevant for cultural and historical experts but also for academics from various fields who wish to develop scientific perspectives rooted in local and regional identities. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of promoting quality education and fostering global partnerships.

This year, SEMEJA IV focuses on how cultural heritage can play a role in community empowerment and strengthening regional integration. The issues raised include language, arts, and culture; leadership and regional integration; heritage preservation as a catalyst for community development; strengthening heritage and sustainable development; and social solidarity through cross-border cultural cooperation.

With an inclusive theme and approach, SEMEJA IV is designed to foster meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and strategic cooperation among academic institutions, local communities, and stakeholders from Indonesia and Malaysia. The seminar marks an important milestone in the efforts to preserve Malay-Javanese culture and create a shared space for academic integration and local values at both regional and global levels.

The opening ceremony also featured a cultural performance of Javanese dance by Ratnatraya, an art student organization from the Department of Javanese Language and Literature at UGM. This was followed by an inaugural speech by YBhg. Dato Haslina Abdul Hamid, the Secretary-General of the Malaysian Ministry of National Unity, and a keynote session led by Prof. Dr. Heddy Shri Ahimsa-Putra from UGM’s Graduate School.

The seminar is scheduled to last for two days, July 1 and 2, 2025, featuring a variety of scientific discussion sessions, community forums, and cultural performances. The presence of stakeholders from both countries is expected to pave the way for closer and more sustainable academic and cultural collaborations.

As part of the seminar’s commitment to the SDGs, particularly in education in developing countries, the event aims to leverage technology and cultural insights to enhance educational outcomes and community engagement. By fostering global partnerships, SEMEJA IV seeks to create a collaborative environment that empowers communities through shared knowledge and cultural understanding.

In conclusion, SEMEJA 2025 not only serves as a platform for academic discourse but also as a celebration of the rich cultural heritage shared by the Malay and Javanese peoples. The collaborative efforts between UGM and UKM exemplify the potential of academic partnerships in addressing global challenges while promoting local identities and cultural preservation.

[Public Relations of FIB UGM, Candra Solihin]